Green Thumbs, Happy Minds
Is gardening something you enjoy? Perhaps you’ve been thinking about doing a bit more in your retirement. The good news is that research shows it has a wide array of benefits.
Whether you’re an experienced green thumb or a complete novice, cultivating a garden can be both therapeutic and rewarding. It’s an easy, relaxing way to maintain your physical and mental well-being.
An enjoyable way to stay active
Gentle gardening involves a whole range of movements that help improve mobility, flexibility, and strength. By bending, stretching, digging, and lifting in the garden, you are getting fit and helping to reduce the risk of falls. Obviously, it’s important to only work within your personal limits and not overdo it. Thirty minutes of daily movement is recommended for adults and seniors, and the good news is that gardening hours can count towards this goal.
Keeping your mind active
Gardening is not just good for your body—it also nurtures your mind and keeps it sharp. Many people find gardening to be meditative, providing a sense of purpose and calm. Studies show that spending time gardening helps your memory, reduces stress and depression, and increases feelings of happiness and well-being.
A productive activity that brings a sense of satisfaction
Spending time outdoors is great for the soul, and the simple joy of planting a seed and watching it grow can be deeply rewarding. Caring for plants not only fosters a happy routine but also offers a real sense of achievement. With retirement comes more free time, and tending to a garden can bring structure to your day, giving you that satisfying feeling of accomplishment as your efforts bloom.
A chance to connect with other garden lovers
Gardening is always a great talking point and an opportunity to be social. At Treeview Estates, many of our residents enjoy discussing plants and exchanging gardening tips. Our tight knit community sometimes garden together to help each other out. It’s a great way to connect and enjoy doing something together.
Tips for gardening in your retirement
- Start Small: Don’t chew off too much to begin in. Start with something manageable – a few potted plants or a small raised garden bed. This way, you can easily care for it without feeling overwhelmed.
- Choose Easy-to-Grow Plants: Select low-maintenance plants like herbs, lettuce, or native Australian flowers. These plants thrive with minimal care and are perfect for beginner gardeners.
- Use Raised Beds: Raised garden beds are ideal to reduce the need for bending or kneeling, making gardening more accessible and comfortable. There are also ergonomic garden tools that make the impact more gentle on your body.
- Chat with other gardeners: Find out what’s growing well. Consider going to a workshop or chatting with the other gardeners at Treeview Estates. Everyone is always happy to share their advice with other green thumbs.
Whether you’re growing vegetables, tending to flowers, or simply enjoying the process of nurturing life, gardening is a great activity for all ages. If it doesn’t go as planned, don’t worry… you can always enjoy the many beautifully landscaped gardens we’re lucky to have at Treeview Estates.